He laid down his rifle, but kept his left hand on the butt of the pistol in his belt.

Then selecting the largest torch from the fire he made a rush straight for the blazing eyes, thrusting the flaming stick before him.

There was a frightened roar, and then the sound of a heavy body crashing away through the undergrowth.
Ned returned, satisfied that he had done as well as the Panther and better.
Both the Panther and Obed were awake and sitting up.

They looked curiously at Ned, who still carried the flaming brand in his hand.
"A noise like the sound of thunder away off wakened me up," said the Panther.

"Now, what have you been up to, young 'un ?" "Me ?" said Ned lightly.